Plot 157: Lean On (requested by charley-day)
Muse A, who was diagnosed with seizure disorder in their early teens, has finally succeeded in convincing their parents that they’re ready to go away for college. The family is concerned about this decision since what started out as simple absence seizures (where Muse A merely appeared to be daydreaming for several moments/minutes) has progressed to include more serious symptoms, such as involuntarily muscle jerks and full-body convulsions. Muse A has been managing their condition responsibly for several months leading up to this change and wants to further prove to their family as well as themself that they’re not fragile and they can be independent. Being so distant from home, starting over in a new environment with no familiar faces and with unforeseeable stresses is going to be challenge, but Muse A is going to give it their best shot.
Muse B is a fellow student who shares an introductory course with Muse A; this is their first time being far from home as well. One day when Muse A begins to convulse in the middle of a lecture, Muse B is the only one to spring into action rather than stare in confusion/fear. When the episode is over and Muse A and Muse B are able to talk, Muse B shares that they have a relative who also has epilepsy and that’s how they knew how to help. Muse A is embarrassed at first, doubting if they made the right decision to move away from home, but Muse B provides encouragement and offers companionship. Muse B is happy to look out for Muse A when necessary, and Muse A is happy to have a friend who won’t treat them like a patient like others so often do.